The word ‘mother’ refers to a relationship. It means more than doing everyday menial tasks. Each mother creates her own relationship, or conversation, with her baby.

Once we become mothers, we also develop new relationships with one another. The way we relate to one another is crucial. The isolation that so many mothers describe is surely not necessary.

Fathers are a vital part of family life. I haven’t written much about their perspective because surely fathers should speak for themselves. Also I see a mother’s role as unique, not interchangeable with a father’s, and needing to be better understood. The much-used word ‘parenting’ often blankets over the crucial contribution of mothers. We need more words to validate what mothers are doing, not just with babies but for the rest of their lives.

Because every family situation is unique, there cannot be one single blueprint for being a good mother. Mothers struggle with all kinds of practical difficulties to maintain warm relationships with their children.

Mothering can seem so intimate, yet it is not just a private activity. It has a political dimension. Politically, mothers are a diverse and potentially strong group.